ASRA unveils Harold Lloyd sculpture at Electric Empire development site
Published by Jon Land for LHA-ASRA in Housing
Thursday 2nd October 2008 - 12:14pm
A sculpture of silent film star, Harold Lloyd, has been unveiled by ASRA Greater London Housing Association at its new Electric Empire development in Lewisham.
The £3.9 million scheme of 23 affordable homes, plus office and retail space, is on the historic site of a former silent movie cinema on New Cross Road.
ASRA worked in partnership with the New Cross Gate New Deal for Communities regeneration team to transform the site.
The old cinema frontage has been retained and forms a feature Grade II listed archway leading to the new apartments, and a central courtyard in which stands the unique sculpture.
The artwork was commissioned by ASRA, part of the LHA-ASRA Group, to celebrate the site’s links to the days of silent movie cinema: the eponymous Electric Empire that entertained audiences between 1908 and 1917.
Local artist and blacksmith, Kevin Boys was inspired to produce a unique interpretation of the actor in galvanised steel. With trademark glasses and hat the Harold Lloyd sculpture stands approximately eight feet tall.
Robert Nettleton, Regeneration Director at LHA-ASRA said: “The success of this development is the result of a strong partnership with the New Cross Gate NDC and Lewisham Council.
"We have all worked to ensure our homes fully meet the needs of the local community and address Lewisham’s long-term identified requirement for affordable housing.”
Clive Wilson, NDC Chief Executive added: "We are really proud of this development and the partnership with ASRA and the local community which enabled it to happen.
“The Electric Empire offers great new affordable homes along with some much-needed quality commercial space. This development is just one of a range of initiatives being introduced which will help ensure the continuing regeneration of New Cross Gate.”
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